Mohammed al-Zaid, 66, whose sons own the bulldozed properties, told AFP the homes were located in a section of Area A land just north of Jericho, one of the few parts of the Jordan Valley where Palestinians can build.

He said that nonetheless the Israelis had been informed of the plans for their construction and had given their consent.

"My sons and I built in this area with the consent of the Israelis through plans presented to them by the Palestinian liaison," he said.

"I do not know why the occupation's bulldozers demolished the houses, where more than 40 people live– my sons and grandchildren."

Jericho governor Majid al-Feytani confirmed the houses were located in Area A and strongly condemned their demolition.

"This is a classified as Area A and we are alarmed by and strongly condemn the measures taken by the occupation authorities," he told AFP.